Discover Con Dao Archipelago, Ho Chi Minh City’s eco-haven! Explore pristine beaches, historical prisons, sustainable tours, and updated pricing with Legend Travel Group. Book your island adventure today!
Capture the serene beauty of Con Dao’s island gem (Source: Internet)Con Dao Archipelago, nestled in Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is a serene eco-destination drawing over 150,000 visitors annually, located 230 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1. Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, Con Dao, once part of Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, is now under Ho Chi Minh City’s jurisdiction, offering untouched beaches, coral reefs, and the biodiverse Con Dao National Park. Spanning 76 km² across 16 mostly uninhabited islands, the main island, Con Son, protects 80% of its land as a national park, home to rare species like the Con Dao black squirrel and sea turtles. With free beach access and activities costing $2–$15 (50,000–375,000 VND), Con Dao is perfect for eco-tourists, history enthusiasts, and adventurers seeking a sustainable retreat.
Set in a tropical climate (dry season: November–April, 25–32°C or 77–90°F; rainy season: May–October, 26–34°C or 79–93°F), Con Dao champions eco-friendly practices, including solar-powered facilities and turtle conservation programs, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s “Green Metropolis” initiative. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours immerse you in Con Dao’s natural beauty and historical depth, ensuring a responsible journey. Book via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s streamlined administrative system now operates at province/city and commune/ward levels, merging Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City. Con Dao is part of Vung Tau Ward, enhancing navigation with updated ward-based maps and signage.
With over 17 years as a leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, Legend Travel Group crafts eco-friendly tours to Con Dao, blending adventure, history, and cultural immersion. Our low-impact transport, such as electric shuttles and eco-boats, paired with expert English-speaking guides, showcases Con Dao’s ecology, history, and green practices. Supporting local communities, we align with Ho Chi Minh City’s sustainability goals. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support for a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and explore Con Dao responsibly!
Experience Con Dao Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Con Dao’s Con Son Island is the archipelago’s heart, famed for its pristine beaches like Dam Trau, historical sites like Con Dao Prison, and Con Dao National Park, which safeguards 370+ plant species, diverse wildlife, and vibrant coral reefs. From 1862 to 1975, Con Dao was a French and American penal colony, detaining over 20,000 prisoners in brutal “tiger cages,” earning the nickname “hell on earth.” Today, its preserved prisons, Hang Duong Cemetery, and Vo Thi Sau’s memorial draw history buffs, while rugged trails, hidden lagoons, and untamed beaches attract adventurers. Sustainable initiatives, like biodegradable amenities and local employment, make Con Dao a model of eco-tourism, offering a tranquil escape from urban life.
These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$15, offer a mix of nature, history, and adventure:
Dive into Bay Canh’s coral reefs, best at 8:00 AM, for $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND), spotting tropical fish and protected corals.
Cost: $10–$15.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use reef-safe sunscreen; tours fund marine conservation.
Tip: Book via Con Dao National Park; included in Legend Travel Group’s Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120).
Visit Phu Hai Prison’s “tiger cages” at 9:00 AM for $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND), learning about Vietnam’s colonial history.
Cost: $2–$3.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local historians; avoid littering.
Tip: Wear modest clothing; included in Con Dao Historical Eco-Tour ($60–$90).
Join turtle-watching tours from September to November at 8:00 PM for $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND), witnessing nesting sea turtles.
Cost: $12–$15.
Hours: Nightly, 7:00 PM–10:00 PM (seasonal).
Eco-Friendly Note: Tours support turtle conservation; no flash photography.
Tip: Reserve via National Park; included in Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120).
Trek rugged trails in Con Dao National Park, best at 7:00 AM, for $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) with guides, spotting endemic wildlife.
Cost: $5–$10.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Stay on trails to protect flora; tours support park maintenance.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120).
Unwind on Dam Trau’s white sands, best at 7:00 AM, free, with umbrella rentals at $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Cost: Free; rentals $1–$2.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Join beach cleanups; use reusable bottles.
Tip: Bring snacks; included in Con Dao Beach Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Photograph the haunting allure of Con Dao’s heritage (Source: Internet)Plan your trip from November to April for dry, sunny weather (25–32°C or 77–90°F), ideal for snorkeling, hiking, and historical tours. The rainy season (May–October) brings lush scenery and fewer crowds (2,000–5,000 daily visitors vs. 10,000–20,000 in peak season), but showers may disrupt outdoor activities. Turtle-hatching season (August–December) is a highlight, especially on Bay Canh. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) are quieter than weekends, particularly during Tet (January/February). Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) offer cooler temperatures, while evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) are perfect for sunset strolls or dining.
Con Dao, in Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, is 230 km from District 1, accessible by air or sea:
By Flight: Vietnam Airlines from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Con Dao Airport (45 min, $80–$120 or 2,000,000–3,000,000 VND one-way), then taxi to Con Son (15 km, $3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND). Round-trip: $160–$250 (4,000,000–6,250,000 VND).
By Ferry (Con Dao Express): High-speed ferry from District 4, Ho Chi Minh City, to Con Son (4.5 hours, $30–$40 or 750,000–1,000,000 VND one-way; weekdays: $30, weekends: $40). Departs 8:00 AM; returns 1:30 PM. Round-trip: $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).
By Private Tour (Legend Travel Group): Flight or ferry with transfers, $100–$150 (2,500,000–3,750,000 VND)/person for 20+ people, including guide.
From Vung Tau Ward: Ferry from Vung Tau Port (3.5 hours, $25–$35 or 625,000–875,000 VND one-way). Round-trip: $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND). Navigation Tip: Save “Con Son, Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow airport/port signs. Parking: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Ferries and group tours reduce emissions; avoid single-use plastics on boats.
Safety: Secure valuables; confirm ferry schedules. Flights may be weather-dependent.
Seize the vibrant spirit of Con Dao Travel (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:
Clothing: Swimwear, light layers, sturdy shoes for trails; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; sun hat.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/BusMap apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, snorkeling gear, camera for coastal shots.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Snacks for trails; cash for vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for activities ($2–$15) or snacks ($1–$3); secure valuables on beaches.
Entry and Activity Fees
Beach Access: Free.
Con Dao Prison: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Snorkeling Tour: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Turtle-Watching Tour: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND).
Hiking Tour: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Umbrella/Chair Rental: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Local Snacks (Bánh Mì, Seafood): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Drinks (Water, Coconut): $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).
Souvenirs (Shell Crafts): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from District 1)
Flight: $160–$250 (4,000,000–6,250,000 VND).
Ferry (Con Dao Express): $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).
Private Tour: $100–$150 (2,500,000–3,750,000 VND)/person.
Airport/Port Taxi: $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND).
Parking: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $20–$40 (ferry, snacks, rentals).
Mid-range: $50–$80 (flight, activities, guided tour).
Luxury: $120–$200 (private tour, snorkeling, premium lodging).
Tip: Budget for activities ($2–$15) and transport ($60–$250); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).
Learn Con Dao’s eco-legacy with expert insights (Source: Internet)Timing: Arrive at 6:00–9:00 AM for cooler weather; November–April for dry conditions. Weekdays for fewer crowds (2,000–5,000 vs. 10,000–20,000 on weekends). Avoid Tet for quieter beaches.
Booking: Buy prison tickets on-site; reserve snorkeling/turtle/hiking tours via Con Dao National Park. Book Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. Confirm ferry/flight schedules.
Sustainability: Use reef-safe sunscreen; join turtle conservation efforts. Support local vendors for snacks ($1–$3) or crafts ($2–$5).
Navigation: Save “Con Son, Vung Tau Ward” in offline maps; ask locals at port/airport for directions. Avoid night travel due to limited lighting.
Safety: Wear life jackets for snorkeling; secure valuables. Check weather for ferry travel; carry a flashlight for evening tours.
Weather: Dry season for safe diving/hiking; rainy season requires rain gear ($2–$5) and waterproof bags ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at historical sites (cover shoulders); greet locals with “xin chào.” Respect wildlife; avoid touching corals.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Con Dao’s natural and historical wonders:
Con Dao Eco-Tour ($80–$120/person, 1 day): Flight or ferry to Con Son for snorkeling, turtle-watching, and beach relaxation, with seafood lunch ($3–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Con Dao Historical Adventure ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Con Dao Prison, Hang Duong Cemetery, and Con Son town walk. Includes meals, guide.
Ho Chi Minh City & Con Dao Escape ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Con Dao beaches, Mekong Delta, and Cu Chi Tunnels with homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Con Dao Archipelago, a pristine eco-tourism haven in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Region, Ho Chi Minh CIty, located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ben Thanh Ward, captivates over 150,000 visitors annually with free beach access to Dam Trau’s shores and the haunting history of Con Dao Prison ($1–$2 entry, 25,000–50,000 VND). Sustainable practices like turtle conservation and low-impact tours preserve its natural splendor. Legend Travel Group’s Con Dao Tours guide you through this island paradise, ensuring a green, immersive Con Dao Travel experience with activities like snorkeling vibrant reefs, hiking rugged trails, and visiting Phi Yen Temple. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Con Dao Archipelago? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable island adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Con Dao Archipelago Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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